ACOs to improve seniors’ access to healthcare services

CHAMPAIGN COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) — Two major healthcare organizations are teaming up to improve access for seniors. Carle Hospital and Christie Clinic are becoming part of an affordable care organization, or ACO.

It means patients, 65 and older, who are eligible for Medicare but aren’t on an Advantage Plan, can have access to more wellness services without having to pay extra for them.

Hospital leaders say the additional support will make a big difference.

“Traditional Medicare today does not offer a lot of preventive services…doesn’t help to coordinate care…it’s basically ‘you go see your doctor, and you get the service you need, and you carry on.'”